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P- ISSN: 0976-1675
E- ISSN: 2249-4538

© CARAS (Centre for Advanced Research in Agricultural Sciences)
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Volume - 16 - November-December 2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 543–549
Getachew Mulugeta Geleto*1
1 Wachemo University College of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Natural Resource Management, Hossana, Ethiopia
Abstract
The feed shortage is the key bottleneck of livestock production sector in Ethiopia. Ever green fodder of trees and shrubs in agroforestry systems provide an alternative solution to boost availability of feed throughout the year. The paper was reviewed leaf biomass yield and chemical composition of major fodder trees and shrubs in agroforestry systems across different agroecologies in Ethiopia. Biomass dry matter yields of indigenous fodder trees were significantly different (p < 0.05) across agroecologies. In the high land, biomass yield/ha was greatest (p < 0.05) for E. brucei followed by H. abyssinica and V. amygdalina while the lowest was for A. alpine. In the midland, D. steudneri had the highest (p=0.001) biomass yield/tree while the least was observed in M. ferruginea and V. amygdalina. The highest biomass yield in the lowland was for C. africana and E. racemose. In general, the average dry matter biomass yields were 0.22- 15.43, 0.28–23.1 and 10.81 –54.1 kg dry matter/tree for highland, midland and lowland, respectively. Erythrina brucei, Dracaena steudneri and Cordia africana had the highest biomass yield in highland, midland and lowland, respectively (p < 0.05). There were significant differences in chemical composition among the fodder tree and shrub species. Chemical composition of the fodder species had on average 89.63% dry matter, 21.7% crud protein, 66.56% digestible dry matter, 52.95% neutral detergent fibber, 28.66% acid detergent fibber, 11.57% acid detergent lignin, 4.17% ether extract, 7.49% ash, 24.28 hemicelluloses and 17.09 cellulose.

Getachew Mulugeta Geleto*1 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 01-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 550–563
Ajaz A. Shah*1
1 Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Kashmir Division, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
Mushroom cultivation represents a vital biotechnological innovation that converts agricultural waste into a high-quality food source, addressing both waste management and nutritional security. This review explores the fundamental biology and ecological role of fungi, the nutritional and medicinal benefits of edible mushrooms, and the detailed, multi-step process of their cultivation, focusing specifically on Agaricus bisporus (white button mushroom). The study highlights mushroom farming as a sustainable and economically viable agribusiness, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where temperate climates and local waste resources create a favorable environment for year-round production. The detailed production technology is a scientifically managed process encompassing compost preparation, a critical step that transforms raw agro-waste into a selective growth medium; spawn preparation and spawning, which involves inoculating the compost with pure fungal mycelium; casing, where a protective layer is added to stimulate fruiting; and finally, fruiting and harvesting, which requires precise environmental control for optimal yield. The review emphasizes the importance of utilizing innovations like region-specific composting methods and maintaining strict hygiene to ensure successful, high-quality production. Ultimately, mushroom cultivation is presented not just as a farming technique, but as a powerful tool for promoting sustainable livelihoods, creating employment, and enhancing public health. Production challenges include a lack of proper infrastructure like shade-net houses, high costs of raw materials, unavailability of quality spawn, and sensitivity to extreme weather. Marketing challenges are marked by poor market access, high transportation costs, and a lack of cold storage, leading to significant post-harvest losses and reduced profitability. Strategic issues facing initial projects often involve suboptimal compost quality, inconsistent yields, and high production costs due to a reliance on expensive, non-local inputs and machinery. Despite these hurdles, the economic analysis reveals a highly feasible and profitable model. With a modest initial fixed investment of approximately ₹1.47 lakh, an operation can generate a net annual profit of nearly ₹1.5 lakh, achieving a strong benefit-cost ratio of 1.90. This demonstrates that mushroom cultivation is a low-risk, scalable, and sustainable venture that provides substantial income and supports rural employment, particularly for women and youth. The study concludes that with targeted support for training, infrastructure, and market linkages, this model can become a powerful tool for economic empowerment and diversification in the agricultural sector.

Ajaz A. Shah*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 03-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 564–568
Ashly Shani*1, Prasanth K1, PradeepKumar T1, Reshmika P. K1, Beena V. I2 and Rashmi C. R3
1 Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India 2 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India 3 AICRP on Vegetable Crops, Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Improving post-harvest quality and shelf life in bitter gourd through precise fertigation strategies is critical for enhancing both marketability and consumer health benefits. The study was conducted to evaluate the shelf life of four bitter gourd hybrids, Prajani, Pragathi, Maya and Pusa Hybrid 4, under six different fertigation regimes: 75 % RDF, 100 % RDF, 125 % RDF, 150 % RDF, Package of Practice Recommendation and absolute control. Physiological loss in weight (PLW) was assessed under ambient and refregerated storage conditions. The best outcome, with minimal PLW, was observed in fruits stored under refrigerated conditions and the hybrid Pragthi under reduced fertigation was most effectively maintains the fruit integrity.

Ashly Shani*1, Prasanth K1, PradeepKumar T1, Reshmika P. K1, Beena V. I2 and Rashmi C. R3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 06-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 565–574
Kimneithem Kipgen*1
1 Department of Economics, Presidency College, Motbung - 795 107, Kangpokpi District, Manipur, India
Abstract
This study analyzes the dynamics and determinants of pulses trade between India and Myanmar from 2003 to 2024, drawing on secondary data from UN Comtrade, FAOSTAT, WITS, ITC, and official government reports. Employing descriptive statistics, trade indices, structural break tests, regression models, and an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) framework, the findings show that India’s imports from Myanmar expanded nearly sixfold, recording a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.74%. Despite this long-term growth, the trade has been highly volatile, marked by sharp surges during liberalization phases and steep declines following policy restrictions. The Trade Intensity Index (TII) consistently remained above 100, reflecting strong bilateral links, though its decline over time suggests diversification. In contrast, the Trade Complementarity Index (TCI) followed an inverted U-shaped pattern, peaking in 2014 before declining. Structural break analysis revealed 2009, 2017, and 2021 as critical turning points, driven by global crises and policy shifts. Econometric evidence confirmed that structural complementarity enhances imports, while excessive concentration and restrictive policies suppress them. The opportunities assessment highlights infrastructure development, wider market access, and technology transfer as major drivers of stability. Thus, the study concludes that India–Myanmar pulses trade is characterized by sustained growth but persistent instability, with policy interventions emerging as the dominant factor shaping trade outcomes.

Kimneithem Kipgen*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 07-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 575–584
B. Appanna*1, N. Chendrayudu2 and Kowluri Venkata Satish3
1-2 Department of Geography, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati - 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, India 3 Department of Geology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati - 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
The aim of this paper is analyzing the seasonal and annual rainfall characteristics viz., Mean rainfall, Rainfall intensity, Rainfall variability, Rainfall ratio, Rainfall recharge and meteorological drought of the Tungabhadra River basin. The daily rainfall data for the period of 30 years from 9 stations have been collected from Indian meteorological department (IMD), Converted and computed and tabulated to seasonal and annually. The mean seasonal rainfall is distrusted as follows: winter (6 mm), summer (76 mm), South west monsoon (452mm) and North east monsoon (133mm). The analysis of seasonal rainfall reveals that the basin experiences the highest rainfall received from South west monsoon season. The annual rainfall of the basin is 668mm Groundwater recharge through rainfall was estimated using Four different empirical equations proposed by Radhakrishna (1974), U. S. Geological Survey method (1963), Seghal (1973), and Krishna Rao method (1970). The average annual recharge calculated using these empirical equations were found to be 66.75mm, 100.13mm, 203.11mm and 66.88mm respectively. The mean annual recharge for the basin is calculated to be 109.23 mm. This accounts for 16.35% of the annual rainfall. Departure Analysis of Rainfall shows that the normal rainfall received for 15 years, while annual rainfall exceeded normal levels in seven years. On the other hand, deficit rainfall was experienced in 8 years. Rainfall anomaly Index was near average for five years, slightly wet for two years, and slightly dry for two years. Tungabhadra River basin’s significant agricultural resource base, which frequently experiences droughts and prolonged dry spells, this study’s spatial analysis of rainfall and recharge provides critical scientific insights to inform sustainable cropping systems and mitigate drought risks in the region.

B. Appanna*1, N. Chendrayudu2 and Kowluri Venkata Satish3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 10-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 585–592
M. Selvi*1 and S. Vanitha2
1-2 Department of Botany, Sri Parasakthi College for Women (Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli), Courtallam - 627 802, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The Micro-morphology of fresh water algae is incredibly diverse, encompassing various cell shapes of round, oval, star shaped and spiral. The growth patterns of these species also have, unicellular, filamentous and colonial and cellular structures such as a protective cell wall composed of polysaccharides and glycoproteins and chloroplasts of varying shapes designed for light capture. These features vary significantly between algal groups including green algae, diatoms and cyanobacteria which are crucial for identifying and understanding their ecological role. In this present study, the class chlorophyceae, 164 algal taxa were identified and they fall into 61 genera. All species were specific to particular habitats of Courtallam. Maximum species were Oedogonium and Spirogyra.

M. Selvi*1 and S. Vanitha2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 12-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 593–596
Kumaresan Marappan*¹, Nadhiya Devi K², V. A. Abhirami³, G. Vaidehi⁴ and Vijai Ananth Arumugam⁵
¹ Assistant Professor, School of Agriculture, Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies, Pallavaram, Chennai - 600 117, Tamil Nadu, India ² Assistant Professor, Department of Horticulture, Adhiparasakthi Horticultural College, G. B. Nagar, Kalavai - 632 506, Ranipet District, Tamil Nadu, India ³ P. G. Scholar, Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, TNAU, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India ⁴ Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Selaiyur - 600 073, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India ⁵ School of Agricultural Sciences, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, Samayapuram - 621 112, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
An experiment entitled “Enhancing growth and herbage yield in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) var. F1 through bio-stimulant applications” was conducted during 2025 at the Department of Horticulture, Adhiparasakthi Horticultural College, Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, to evaluate the influence of various bio-stimulants on the growth and physiological attributes of fenugreek. The study was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with ten treatments and three replications, comprising Panchagavya (1%, 2%, 3%), humic acid (1%, 2%, 3%), fish amino acid (1%, 2%, 3%), and a control. Observations recorded 20 days after sowing revealed significant differences among treatments. The highest plant height (15.7 cm), root length (7.2 cm), and total herbage yield (15.2 t ha⁻¹) were obtained with fish amino acid @ 2% (T₇), while the maximum chlorophyll content (65.6 SPAD) and leaf length (4.3 cm) were recorded with fish amino acid @ 3% (T₄). Humic acid @ 2% (T₆) recorded the highest biomass (2.34 g plant⁻¹) and number of leaves (8.1). The control (T₁) recorded the lowest performance for all parameters. Overall, bio-stimulants, particularly fish amino acid and humic acid, significantly enhanced vegetative growth, chlorophyll content, and herbage yield of fenugreek under organic cultivation.

Kumaresan Marappan*¹, Nadhiya Devi K², V. A. Abhirami³, G. Vaidehi⁴ and Vijai Ananth Arumugam⁵ Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 14-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 597–601
S. Ranjith Raja Ram*1 and R. Elakkya2
1 Assistant Professor, Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tapioca and Castor Research Station (TCRS), Yethapur, Salem - 636 119, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
To estimate combining ability, heterosis and nature of gene action involved in the inheritance of fruit yield and its components traits in brinjal by using seven lines and three testers and their resulting 21 hybrids through Line x Tester mating design. The analysis of variance for experimental design revealed highly significant differences among genotypes, parents and hybrids for all the characters, indicating the presence of sufficient amount of genetic variability for the 10 traits studied. Among the parents, based on per se performance and gca effect, the lines L4, L1, L7, L2 and the testers T3 were found to be the better for most of the traits studied. Among the hybrids, the crosses L2 x T3, L7 X T3, L4 x T3 and L6 x T3 exhibited high per se performance for fruit yield per plant. The high sca status of the hybrids indicated dominance and epistatic interaction. The combining ability variances indicated the preponderance of non - additive gene action, for characters like days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of flowers per cluster, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, fruit yield per plant. Hence these characters could be exploited through heterosis breeding. The hybrid L4 x T3 was promising among all the hybrids studied, followed by L7 x T3 which possessed desirable sca. Based on per se performance, sca effect and standard heterosis the hybrid L4 x T3 and L7 x T3 can be recommended for hybrid breeding. The use of heterosis breeding or recurrent selection or biparental mating followed by pedigree selection may prove to be effective in simultaneous exploitation of both the type of gene actions for improvement of fruit yield and its attributes in brinjal.

S. Ranjith Raja Ram*1 and R. Elakkya2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 17-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 602–608
D. Angeline Kiruba*1, E. Arockia Lenin2, T. Malarvizhi1, M. Shrilega1 and B. Thivyaa1
1 Department of Industrial Biotechnology, Government College of Technology, Coimbatore - 641 013, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Regional Office, Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The main objective of the work is to formulate an effective disinfectant. The main compounds of the disinfectant are extracted from natural sources and to study its effectiveness in vegetable preservation. Pathogens in the environment are responsible for the spoilage and contamination of food, which can be reduced by disinfectant. However synthetic disinfectant possess threat to human health and environment. Natural disinfectant is formulated by extracting allicin, a phenolic compound from garlic (Allium sativum), mint extract from peppermint leaves (Mentha piperita), saponin (surfactant) from coconut (Cocos nucifera) leaves. These compounds are safe to be used and effective against pathogens. The effectiveness of the formulated allicin based disinfectant is studied for its ant repelling property and its application on the vegetable Brassica oleracea (Cauliflower) in order to improve its shelf life.

D. Angeline Kiruba*1, E. Arockia Lenin2, T. Malarvizhi1, M. Shrilega1 and B. Thivyaa1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 19-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 609–612
Jatesh Kathpalia*¹, Rijul Sihag², Rashmi Tyagi³, Anil Kumar Saroha4 and Arun Patter5
1-2 Assistant Scientist, Department of Sociology, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, India 3 Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, India 4 Associate Professor, Department of Farm Machinery and Power, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, India 5 Ph. D. Scholar, Department of Sociology, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, India
Abstract
The adoption of digital tools in agriculture has gained momentum in recent years, with drones emerging as a promising technology for precision farming. Their ability to improve efficiency, reduce risks, and support sustainable practices makes them particularly relevant for regions like Haryana, where farming is central to rural livelihoods. This study examined the benefits and perceived constraints of agricultural drone technology among farmers who had participated in demonstration programs in Haryana. Conducted in Hisar and Karnal districts, the survey covered 60 respondents (30 from each district) using a structured interview schedule. Results showed that the most widely acknowledged benefit was the reduction of farmers’ direct exposure to harmful chemicals during spraying, followed by automation of tasks, reduction in manual labour, and improved crop quality. Farmers also recognized drones as a tool to attract youth to agriculture and support sustainable practices. However, major barriers to adoption were reported, including low water storage capacity, high purchase cost, limited flight time, and operational difficulties near electric wires. The findings suggest that while farmers view drones positively, greater adoption will require financial support, technical improvements, and targeted training. Strengthening extension programs and providing subsidies could play a crucial role in expanding drone use in agriculture.

Jatesh Kathpalia*¹, Rijul Sihag², Rashmi Tyagi³, Anil Kumar Saroha4 and Arun Patter5 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 21-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 613–616
Kumaresan Marappan*1, Anbarasu Mariyappillai1, Vijai Ananth Arumugam2, Shakila Sadasivam3 and Rajiv Govindhan4
1-2 Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies, Pallavaram - 600 117, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India ² School of Agricultural Sciences, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, Samayapuram - 621 112, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India 3-4 SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Baburayanpettai - 603 201 Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The present study investigated the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) root and leaf extracts prepared using different solvent systems. A 2 × 4 factorial experiment was conducted at VISTAS, Chennai, during 2024-2025, with plant part (roots and leaves) and extraction solvent (aqueous, 70% ethanol, 70% methanol, and acetone:water 70:30 v/v) as factors. Extract yields, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activities were evaluated. Among the extraction methods, 70% methanol and 70% ethanol yielded significantly higher extract recovery (13.00 ± 0.40% and 12.40 ± 0.39%, respectively) than aqueous and acetone: water extractions. The highest TPC (72.64 ± 2.18 mg GAE/g) and TFC (34.11 ± 1.26 mg QE/g) were recorded in leaf extracts obtained with 70% methanol, followed by 70% ethanol. Antioxidant assays demonstrated that methanolic and ethanolic extracts exhibited the strongest radical scavenging and reducing power, as indicated by lower DPPH IC₅₀ (92.68 ± 2.41 µg/mL and 98.47 ± 2.58 µg/mL), higher ABTS TEAC (224.65 ± 5.10 and 210.23 ± 4.78 µmol Trolox/g), and elevated FRAP values (302.14 ± 5.62 and 291.75 ± 5.24 µmol Fe²⁺/g). The results indicate that 70% methanol is the most efficient extraction solvent for recovering bioactive constituents from W. somnifera leaves, suggesting its potential for developing natural antioxidant formulations and phytopharmaceutical applications.

Kumaresan Marappan*1, Anbarasu Mariyappillai1, Vijai Ananth Arumugam2, Shakila Sadasivam3 and Rajiv Govindhan4 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 24-Nov-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 6 ; 617–623
T. Vyshnav*1, Boby V. Unnikrishnan1, Surendra K. Gopal1, P. S. Panchami1 and N. K. Binitha2
1 Department of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala, India 2 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Kasaragod - 671 314, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala, India
Abstract
Lignin, a major component of agricultural residues. It is highly resistant to biodegradation, posing significant challenges for sustainable residue management. The present study aimed to isolate and characterize ligninolytic bacteria from diverse lignin-rich environments in Thrissur, Kerala, and to evaluate their potential for lignin degradation. A total of 46 bacterial isolates were obtained from eight environmental sources, such as cow dung, coir pith, decayed wood, forest soil, marshy soil, rice straw, sawdust and termites. Screening with lignin-mimicking synthetic dyes (Congo Red, Azure B, and Methylene Blue) revealed 25 isolates capable of decolourising at least one of the tested dyes. Quantitative assays revealed that isolate S–4 exhibited the highest decolourisation of Congo Red (93.07%) and Methylene Blue (84.73%), while D–6 showed the highest decolourisation of Azure B (32.70%). Among the tested isolates, only two showed strong cellulose degradation, while others were weak or inactive. The study highlights the potential of these bacterial isolates as efficient lignin degraders, offering promising applications in lignocellulosic biomass valorisation and sustainable residue management strategies.

T. Vyshnav*1, Boby V. Unnikrishnan1, Surendra K. Gopal1, P. S. Panchami1 and N. K. Binitha2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 08-Dec-2025